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Hooke's Law - A Level Physics Definition

Reviewed by: Leander Oates

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What is Hooke's law?

In A Level Physics, Hooke's law is a fundamental principle that describes the behaviour of springs and elastic materials. A material obeys Hooke's law if the extension of the material is directly proportional to the applied force (load) up to the limit of proportionality.

Hooke's law can also be described by the following equation:

F space equals space k increment L

Where:

  • F = force applied (load), measured in newtons (straight N)

  • k = spring constant, measured in newtons per metre (straight N space straight m to the power of negative 1 end exponent)

  • increment L = extension, measured in metres (straight m)

Some exam boards use different symbols in this equation. Use our exam board specific revision notes to find out which symbols your exam board uses.

The spring constant is a measure of the stiffness of the material.

Hooke's law is crucial in understanding elastic potential energy and plays a significant role in mechanics and materials science.

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Leander Oates

Reviewer: Leander Oates

Expertise: Senior Physics Content Creator

Leander graduated with First-class honours in Science and Education from Sheffield Hallam University. She won the prestigious Lord Robert Winston Solomon Lipson Prize in recognition of her dedication to science and teaching excellence. After teaching and tutoring both science and maths students, Leander now brings this passion for helping young people reach their potential to her work at SME.

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